Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japanese Foreign Minister MOTEGI Toshimitsu called on Israel to avoid taking action that could undermine regional stability, including attacking targets in Lebanon and Syria, in addition to the constant attacks on Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

In reply to a question from Arab News Japan at a press conference on Friday, Motegi pointed out that Japan is heavily dependent on the region for natural resources, including oil imports, and has been monitoring the situation in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon “with great concern.”

“We have conveyed our position to Israel on various occasions, urging them to refrain from actions that may undermine regional stability,” Motegi said, adding that Japan is making continued diplomatic efforts in collaboration with other countries. 

Motegi said that in response to the worsening situation in the West Bank, Japan implemented measures in July to freeze assets belonging to Israeli settlers, but Tokyo remains slow in backing Palestine statehood. 

“Regarding the future of Palestine and the issue of statehood, we believe it is important to make a comprehensive judgment based on the most appropriate national and human rights considerations toward the realization of a two-state solution,” Foreign Minister Motegi said.